Oligospermia refers to semen with a low concentration of sperm and is a common finding in male infertility. Often semen with a decreased sperm concentration may also show significant abnormalities in sperm morphology and motility.

Oligospermia is defined as less number of sperm in the ejaculate of the male. Among infertile couples, 40% are primarily due to the infertility of the male partner, while in 20% of these cases it is a combination of both male and female factors associated which lead to infertility. Out of several causes of male infertility, in clinical practice Oligospermia is considered one of the most prevalent causes.

Since Oligospermia tends to have no effect on sexual function, men may not know they have this unless they are having trouble conceiving with a partner.

The diagnosis of Oligospermia is based on one low count in a semen analysis performed at on two occasions. For many decades, sperm concentration of less than 20 million sperm/ml were considered low or Oligospermic, recently, however, the WHO reassessed sperm criteria and established a lower reference point, less than 15 million sperm/ml, consistent with the 5th percentile for fertile men.  Sperm concentrations fluctuate and Oligospermia may be temporary or permanent.

Common Cause of Oligospermia:

1. Stress: – reduces sperm count
2. Tobacco: – Nicotine damages sperms
3. Lead: – Workers in printing press have low sperm count
4. Hot climates
5. Varicocele
6. Avoidance of saunas, hot baths, the wearing of tight underwear, and other situations in which scrotal temperature may be raised
7. Alcohol: – Alcohol damages sperms

Symptoms of Low Sperm Count

1. Wide and erratic mood swings
2. Irrational behavior
3. Increased aggressiveness (steroid or roid rage)
4. Irritability
5. Increased sex drive (libido) in men and sometimes in women
6. Depression

Treatment of Low Sperm Count

1. Switch to a healthier, fair diet rich in vegetables and whole grains.
2. Exercise regularly.
3. Try to reduce stress.
4. Keep weight off; if you are heavy, lose the excess weight.
5. Don’t smoke.

Ways you can Increase Your Sperm Count

1. Stay away from cigarettes and alcohol
2. Practice yoga and meditation to be stress free
3. Try to exercise regularly
4. Try to maintain a three day gap between two consecutive ejaculations to remain fertile
5. Avoid bitter, spicy and acidic foods
6. Avoid tight underpants to provide an ambient climate for the testicles
7. Have a good massage therapy with herbal oils to improve blood circulation
8. Loose excess weight
9. Have a healthy diet containing whole grains and vegetables rich in proteins and vitamins
10. Sperm levels are at the highest in the morning and afternoon making it the most excellent time for love making.

Home Remedies for Oligospermia

1. Practice yoga and meditation to be stress free
2. Try to exercise regularly
3. Try to maintain a three day gap between two consecutive ejaculations to remain fertile
4. Avoid bitter, spicy and acidic foods
5. Avoid tight underpants to provide an ambient climate for the testicles
6. Have a good massage therapy with herbal oils to improve blood circulation
7. Loose excess weight